Good Samaritans thwart purse-snatching in White Rock

A 36-year-old White Rock man is facing charges following what police are calling a “cowardly” purse-snatching in White Rock this week – and they’re crediting Good Samaritans for the arrest.

Const. Chantal Sears told Peace Arch News at least four individuals played a role in thwarting the crime.

“Two different people phoned it in, then two other people… were holding him down,” she said.

The robbery occurred around 5:40 p.m. Wednesday at the corner of Thrift Avenue and Fir Street.

In a news release, Staff Sgt. Daryl Creighton described the crime as “particularly disgusting due to the fact that the victim of this purse snatching is 95 years old, walks with a cane and has limited eyesight.”

The victim suffered minor injuries to one arm, but did not require hospitalization.

Creighton said the individuals who took action – men and women who ranged in age from 33 to 65 – “should be commended for potentially putting themselves in harm’s way during their apprehension of the person responsible for this cowardly attack.”

Police announced Thursday afternoon that Kevin Bradley Howald has been charged with theft under $5,000.